Gutierrez: U.S. won't ease up on Cuba

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez says the Bush administration will maintain its tough stance toward Cuba, The Miami Herald reported Thursday.

Gutierrez, the highest ranking Cuban-American in the administration, said that the White House has no plans to change its hard-line policies against Havana.

"The question is not when will the U.S. change its policy. The question is when will the Cuban regime change its policy," said Gutierrez.

He also dismissed claims that U.S. sanctions against the communist island are responsible for its hardships.